Meet the “Speaker for the Dreamer”
As a storyteller, TV host, and facilitator, Shaun Derik has dedicated his career to helping dreamers—young and old—reconnect with their inside voices.
Through his signature style—blending humor, rhythm, and real-world insight—Shaun helps audiences uncover disruptive patterns, reframe their circumstances, and leave feeling clear, energized, and ready to take bold steps toward their goals.
“They all laughed when I sat at the piano, but when I started to play..."Read More
For nearly 20 years, Shaun Derik has had the prestigious opportunity to reach and inspire young people—along with the dedicated adults who serve them—helping more than 700,000 individuals unlock their full potential.
A high-energy speaker, educator, and artist, Shaun uses live music, movement, and humor to engage audiences in a way that feels effortless, while leading them to recognize disruptive behavioral patterns and take massive steps toward lasting change. His unique ability to connect makes complex topics—such as mental health, resilience, and substance abuse prevention—accessible and impactful for students, educators, and youth advocates alike.
“My very first speech was awful. I was so nervous, sweaty, and I couldn’t quite connect with them. Then I noticed a piano in the corner and wheeled it out. They all laughed at first, but when I started to play, you could hear a pin drop. I had found my voice with them.” – Derik
Since 2008, Shaun has worked alongside schools, districts, and national organizations to promote student well-being and personal development. His partnerships include:
- Student Assistant Services
- The Mississippi Department of Education’s Dropout Prevention Program
- The National Association of Secondary School Principals
- Big Brothers Big Sisters
- The National Police Activities League
- ABC Virginia’s Youth Alcohol and Drug Abuse Project
A major highlight of his work came in 2019, when Shaun hosted stadium-sized opioid awareness summits through WV Gamechanger, engaging tens of thousands of students statewide and over 200,000 more via PBS livecast—a groundbreaking effort in substance abuse prevention education.
Beyond the stage, Shaun has served as a four-time host of Prudential’s Emerging Leaders Awards Show (formerly Spirit of Community Awards), which honors teens leading innovative projects to address financial and social challenges. This role has placed him alongside renowned public figures, including:
- Hoda Kotb (Co-host of Today Show)
- Eli Manning (Two-time Super Bowl Champion)
- America Ferrera (Emmy-winning actress & activist)
- Priyanka Chopra (Actress, activist & UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador)
And what’s next? On April 2025, Shaun stepped into his new role as co-host of a PBS Kids Show—to bring his signature energy and impact to a national audience.
Whether on stage, in the classroom, or in front of the camera, Shaun’s work continues to bridge the gap between education, entertainment, and social impact, making him a sought-after voice in youth mental health and leadership development.
